Constructions crews are busy revamping local roadways, and it's a job that's often thankless and tends to put workers' lives at risk.

As drivers approach construction zones, they should expect delays and remain extremely alert to changing road conditions and traffic-flow patterns.

We've all heard of road rage, and traffic delays due to road work is a typical area of contention among many motorists. But minutes of frustration have the capability of leading to life-long remorse when a motorist loses patience and drives erratically or speeds through a construction zone.

There have been many instances in which road workers who are simply trying to earn a living have been injured and even killed as a result of motorists' irresponsible actions.

Below are a few tips to help curb problems relating to construction zones.

- Plan Ahead. Leave yourself plenty of time to take into account any construction projects you may encounter.

- Slow down. Follow posted speed limits.

- Stay Alert. Watch for warning signs and changing conditions at all times. Avoid cell phone or radio distractions, and try not to look at other stopped cars or construction sites.

- Leave Room. Build at least a two-second delay between you and the car ahead while driving, and an adequate safety zone when stopped to allow time for defensive driving. And, keep a safe distance between your vehicle and traffic barriers, trucks, construction equipment and workers.

- Keep your cool. Don't allow impatient or speeding motorists to cause you to alter your own good driving habits. Remember, the temporary inconvenience of a construction zone will pay off with greatly improved roads soon.